Shannon M. (confuzzledbooks) reviewed on 9/22/2021 + 486 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

American Rose is a part memoir of Gypsy Rose Lee and part history of burlesque. Chapters jump back and forth into the life of Gypsy and the rise of The Minsky brothers theatres of burlesque.

I have always been a fan of the musical Gypsy which was written about the real-life actress/ burlesque star. I learned so much about her and her family. She not only had acted in movies but wrote 2 mystery books, and had a child. Every time she tried to leave burlesque she would always find herself back. Although the musical based on her life had its bright moments I think the truth is Gypsy went through much more dark times than this book expanded on.

I was less interested in the rise and fall of the Minsky brothers and their theatres. Yes, Gypsy's history does cross with theirs but I just never cared about their struggles. Even though I learned so much about Gypsy's life there were parts of her history that were so strange and shocking but were only glanced over. For instance, it was rumored Gypsy's mother Rose and possibly Gypsy herself killed a homeless man. How can you just nonchalantly mention killing someone and then go back to Gypsy house parties? It was so shocking.

I might read more about Gypsy and maybe the books she wrote. I am still very curious about the fact Rose and Gypsy might have been serial killers.

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